Garde signed a three-and-a-half year deal when he replaced Sherwood but the former Lyon boss' future had looked increasingly precarious after Villa failed to sign any new players during the January transfer window despite their perilous position.

And he departs after six consecutive defeats. His final game was the 1-0 loss to Swansea on March 19.

Garde only tasted success against Crystal Palace and Norwich in the league and against Wycombe in the FA Cup, although Villa had been taken to a replay by the League Two side.

He is the third high profile departure from the club this month, following chief executive Tom Fox and sporting director Hendrik Almstadt out the door.